Genoa is an old Italian city, the birthplace of Christopher Columbus. Usually, tourists are shown the most popular sights - and nothing more. But that means seeing only the tip of the iceberg. Excursions in Genoa in Russian will allow you to feel the spirit of this city, look at it from unusual angles, and discover such historical treasures that elude other tourists. You can choose a trip during which the guide will tell you exactly what you are interested in. On the site, you pay only 20% of the cost, and the rest of the money is paid to the guide on the spot.
Walls that know how to tell
While walking, you will not only see its sights and hear their history. You will receive answers to the most interesting questions, and this will allow you to take a fresh look at this extraordinary Italian city. You will start your journey from the Old Port. The streets here are narrow, and their interlacing resembles a spider's web.
Your guide will show you the San Giorgio Palace, which, since the 15th century, was considered the first bank in the world.
You may not have thought about it, but the usurers showed miracles of ingenuity and demonstrated remarkable intelligence. Amazing exhibits are kept in the Cathedral of St. Lorenzo, the construction of which began in the distant 12th century. The relics of the cathedral include the ashes of John the Baptist, a carnelian dish on which his severed head lay, the cup of the Holy Grail from which Christ drank during the Last Supper, a lock of the Virgin Mary's hair and a thorn from the crown of thorns of the Savior.
In the cathedral, you can pray and turn to God with your requests. Another temple that is included in the program is the Church of Jesus of the Jesuit Order. The painting of the altar was done by the great Rubens. The guide will tell you how Genoa is connected with the names of Christopher Columbus and Niccolo Paganini. So, Columbus's dwelling has survived to this day, and the inhabitants of the city considered the music of the great violinist "devilish". Paganini even sat in the local prison.
Although Genoa is inferior to the same Florence in the number of works of art, great canvases are also kept here. So, in the Red and White Palaces you can see paintings by Rubens and Van Dyck. And you will also have to hear the history of the Doge's Palace, walk along the most beautiful square - de Ferrari and admire the view of the city that opens from the observation deck.
Genoa today
During this excursion, you will hear a story about how Genoa was founded and how the city developed in the future, as well as find out what great people lived here. The journey begins from the old bank in the San Giorgio Palace. You will see the Doge's Palace and admire the fountains in Plaza de Ferrari. Also on the program is a visit to the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, built in the Gothic style, and a museum that houses religious relics.
You will see the church of the Jesuit order of St. Ambrogio and Andrew, one of the oldest, a magnificent example of the Romanesque style. Admire the symbol of the city, the Soprana Gate, which dates back to the 12th century. Also, the guide will show you the house in which the young Christopher Columbus grew up. Finally, you will stroll along the beautiful rue Garibaldi, designed by one of Michelangelo's students.
Genoa in the palm of your hand
Do you want to see the city from an unusual perspective? During this excursion, you will visit several observation decks. Climb them using lifts, funiculars, or just the steps of the stairs, which are so many in Genoa. The ancient city is located "vertically", its architecture is such that it definitely "descends" to the sea. You will hear a story about the special character traits inherent in the Genoese, about how art, craft and usury coexisted here from time immemorial. The guide will tell you a lot of love stories, tell you about how its main attractions appeared in the city.
Genoa - love at first sight
You will not only see those corners that cannot fail to inspire a sense of admiration, but you will also receive a lot of advice. Based on your interests, the guide will tell you what places you need to visit during your stay in the old Italian city, how to get there, how much entrance tickets cost, etc. He will also share information about the best cafes and shops. You will see the sights of the city - both world famous and those that the guides often do not mention. So, you will look at the house in which the city executioner lived, see the world's first bank, hear the history of churches, walk along the famous streets.
The guide will tell you about the bloody past of Pisa Square, show the fortifications that were used to defend the city. You will also take photos of the famous arches and bridges, visit the city's train stations, which are distinguished by their unusual architecture, and go up to the observation decks. The journey will end in one of the most unusual and beautiful neighborhoods - Boccadasse, which can often be seen on postcards. All the houses here are multi-colored. You can also try our signature and delicious ice cream at a local cafe.
Buongiorno, Genoa!
This is not only an educational, but also a very “tasty” trip. It will start in the Old Port, where you will admire the boats that sway on the waves. After all, Genoa has been famous since ancient times precisely as a port city. The guide will take you to the house where the great Columbus spent his childhood. You will taste deep-fried seafood and appreciate this local fast food.
The program also includes a tour of the Palace of San Giorgio, a walk along Piazza de Ferrari and Garibaldi Street. Other attractions are concentrated in this area, which the guide will certainly tell you about. The famous Cathedral of San Lorenzo, where many shrines are kept, cannot be ignored. The guide will tell you how the flag of Great Britain is connected with the history of Genoa, and will take you to where you can taste focaccia - the most delicious flatbread in the world.
Orthodox artifacts in the Catholic churches of Genoa
Although the majority of the inhabitants of Italy profess Catholicism, there are also many shrines that are important for Orthodox believers. While walking around the city, the guide will introduce you to them. You will visit the Cathedral of St. Lorenzo and bow to the relics of John the Baptist. In the chapel in honor of the Baptist, you can also see images of Saints Nicholas and Lawrence, several revered icons of the Mother of God.
In the Basilica of St. Maria del Castello keeps relics associated with the name of St. Nicodemus and numerous Orthodox icons donated to the church by noblemen from Russia, whose families have moved to this region. In the Armenian church of St. The Apostle Bartholomew keeps the Savior Not Made by Hands - the very ubrus with which the Savior wiped his face, and His face was imprinted on it.
Historic center of proud Genoa
The great maritime power, which from time immemorial was considered Genoa, was not for nothing called "majestic, proud." You can be convinced of this. Your guide will lead you to the Palace of San Giorgio (Saint George) and admire its frescoes. And in the cathedral, which was erected neither more nor less than three centuries, you will see many Christian shrines. Of course, the house of the great Columbus cannot be avoided.
The guide will tell you many legends related to history - intrigue, love, criminal cases, funny stories. This is truly unique, carefully collected information. Squares and churches, Sopranian gates, majestic palaces, including Red, White and Tursi, picturesque bridges are waiting for you. During the walk, you can ask the guide any questions regarding the history of the city - and you will get an answer to everything. Such a trip will be interesting for both adults and children.
Drive to Portofino
If you love nature, privacy and luxury, you should definitely visit Portofino. It is a small but very prestigious and beautiful resort, which is located not far from Genoa. You will have to go along the road, which was laid by the inhabitants of Ancient Rome. And Portofino itself was founded by them. True, then it was called "Dolphin Harbor".
There are so many beautiful landscapes that you just need to take a camera with you. You will hear the history of the resort, go up to the observation deck, from where you can admire the Gulf of Tigulio. If you wish, you can visit boutiques and great restaurants in the city. The guide will also show you the villas of celebrities and explain why this resort is so popular.
National Park "Cinque Terre" and Portovenere
Don't miss this excursion - it will give you the opportunity to see amazing places. The national park is actually 5 picturesque villages, which are connected by trails leading through the mountains. The views from here are magnificent, so the camera should be your companion. As well as comfortable shoes. You will set off from the city of Portovenere - from Genoa it is convenient to get here by boat. This town also deserves attention. There is an old fortress, the guide will tell you many legends associated with Portovenere, you should also go to a cafe and taste the local cuisine.
Then you will go directly to the Cvinke Terre and go around its settlements one by one. Car traffic is prohibited here, and it will seem to you that you have been transported several centuries ago. These villages appeared in the 11th century, and were described by Petrarch. Fishermen's houses, small turrets, secluded beaches, a peculiar way of life of the inhabitants - time seemed to stand still here. The guide will tell the history of the area and take you to an excellent café serving seafood and local wines. You can also swim in the sea.
Discover the beauty and charm of the Italian Riviera
A very romantic excursion that you will never forget. On a short trip, explore the prestigious resort of Santa Margherita. From a small village where fishermen lived, it has evolved into a fashionable celebrity vacation spot. You will see an old villa surrounded by a beautiful garden, stroll along the embankment, and if you wish, go to a cafe. Next, you will head to Portofino, where you can take great pictures of the picturesque colorful houses.
The guide will tell you about what films were filmed here, and which movie stars built villas here. Then you will proceed to the Benedictine abbey, walk through the territory of the monastery, swim in the local clear waters and see the statue of Christ, installed at the bottom of the bay. And finally, take a boat trip to Camogli - there is a castle, colorful boats, an embankment stretching over the sea, and the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin. The guide will show you where to buy keepsakes and sample local sweets.
"La Rue des rois" (Rue of the Kings)
Once upon a time, the Genoese clans had their own streets and quarters, and they tried to make the architecture of their palaces and churches more magnificent and luxurious than that of their neighbors. Two famous streets - Garibaldi and Balbi - history has come to life. In the Middle Ages, the land plots located here were sold at auctions, and then the nobility began to build their houses. Together with a guide, you will visit the Red and White Palaces, see rich collections of paintings.
Explore the palaces that belonged to the families of Doria, Grimaldi and others. You will see a real treasure of architecture - the Basilica of Santissima Annunziata. Its luxurious finish is a true work of art. Representatives of the Savoy dynasty lived in the Royal Palace, built in the Baroque and Rococo styles. Here is the famous Hall of Mirrors, which delighted King Louis XIV of France. There is also a painting by Van Dyck "The Crucifixion of Christ".
Christopher Columbus and Niccolo Paganini. The life of the great Genoese
It is during this excursion that you will see all the iconic places associated with the names of the great discoverer and famous violinist. Even the houses where they spent their childhood are located close to each other. Near the Upper Gate of the fortress wall, there is the Black Cat Lane - Paganini grew up here, and Columbus's house is on the other side of the gate. Churches have survived where the birth of boys was witnessed. Columbus is mentioned in the records of the church of St. Stefano, and Paganini - in the records of the ancient church of St. Donato - by the way, you can see magnificent paintings here.
You will also go to the prison where Paganini languished, and visit the harbor, inextricably linked with the name of Christopher Columbus. Paganini's violin, made by the hands of the great master Guarneri, is carefully kept in the Tursi palace. The local opera and ballet theater regularly hosts a violin competition. The winner receives the Paganini Prize. In conclusion, you will climb to the observation deck, from where you can see not only the city center, but also the old lighthouse.
The heart of historic Genoa
During this leisurely walk through the most interesting places, you will learn a lot and get answers to all your questions related to the city. You will set off from the Old Port, listen to a story about Columbus's youth, see a huge aquarium, and a pirate galleon that was filmed in a movie. The guide will tell you who was the most famous customer of the world's first bank located in the San Giorgio Palace. You will also see the churches famous all over the world - the Cathedral of St. Lorenzo, and the Church of Jesus, where you can see the painting by Rubens.
You will take a look at those streets that are not usually visited by tourists, and sit in cafes that are preferred by the locals. You also have to walk along the Plaza de Ferrari and look at the majestic palaces where the aristocrats lived. These buildings are magnificent examples of the Baroque style. You will then climb up to the observation deck and end your journey with a bird's eye view of Genoa. From here you can see the lighthouse, the caretaker of which was Columbus's uncle.
Cooking class from Signora Enrika
Italian cuisine is something! Do you want not only to taste its popular dishes, but also to take part in a master class on their preparation? Do not miss your chance. You will visit a typical Italian home and meet its owner. Signora Enriki will treat you to wine and flatbread. And then you will move on to recipes for making dough for such popular dishes as lasagna, pasta, fettuccine.
The secrets of their preparation are passed down from generation to generation. You will also learn how to cook anchovies and fry fish the Genoese style. Of course, you will try all the dishes prepared, and the guide will tell you about what usually appears on the table of residents, what dishes are prepared for family meals. Recipes can be written down. In conclusion, you will find a delicious cake and excellent coffee.
Walk along Nervi and Boccadassa
During this excursion, you will see areas that tourists usually do not visit. This is an unusual Genoa, a city of contrasts. The journey will begin in the Boccadasse area, where families of sailors once lived. The picturesque streets and houses, painted in different colors, have survived to this day. And how picturesque the Italian courtyards are! Here the clothes dry on the ropes and songs are played. You will go up to the observation deck to take a look at the bay, and if the weather permits, then go down to the beach and swim in the sea. After that, it is especially pleasant to have a snack of deep-fried seafood. And how well Italian ice cream is refreshing in hot weather. You will also walk along Nervi, there is a huge park and wonderful museums, and in the Rosary many varieties of the "queen of flowers" are grown.At the end, you will walk along the Anita Garibaldi embankment, sit on the stones, enjoying the landscape, and see the places that delighted the seascape painter Aivazovsky. Also, you will be told a lot of interesting facts about the city and its inhabitants.
Great car-walking tour
This combined excursion will allow you to see the sights without wasting unnecessary energy. Therefore, it can be ordered for tourists of any age, including children and pensioners. First, you will walk along the narrow old streets. The guide will tell the history of the majestic palaces and temples, draw your attention to the shops and shops selling delicious cakes, sweets, seafood. And in the cafe, where Giuseppe Verdi often visited, you will have coffee.
You will then hop into your car and travel to places that you would hardly visit while walking. You will see the most beautiful sights and visit its suburbs. You will look at the "sacred field" of Campo Santo, visit the Staglieno cemetery - this is a real museum, and visit Nervi, where the nobility preferred to live. You can get out of the car, stretch your legs and take a walk in the beautiful park.
Orthodox relics and holy places
Such a trip will be interesting to everyone who is interested in history and, in particular, the history of religions. There are many shrines in Genoa, and pilgrims from different countries come here. At the same time, people who profess both Catholicism and Orthodoxy live in the city. You will see the most beautiful churches, learn interesting facts about icon painting.
The showcases contain the relics of saints, the hair of the Virgin Mary, particles of the Lord's Cross and a thorn from His crown of thorns, a dish on which lay the severed head of John the Baptist. The treasures of religious art will appear before you, and you will begin to understand the meaning of the images of the saints. You can also buy souvenirs as a keepsake.
Great and controversial Genoa
Genoa is full of contradictions - you will experience it on a 2-hour journey. It will not be tiresome even for children, and you will also take a break to eat ice cream and drink coffee. You will walk along the old streets where ordinary Genoese lived and admire the magnificent palaces of the nobility. See the luxuriously decorated cathedrals and stand in squares that are several centuries old. The guide will tell you about how the life of the Genoese develops today and what is the peculiarity of their mentality.
You will hear the history of the city's formation, look into the Old Port area, find out where the house of Christopher Columbus is. The guide will tell you what great people Genoa is associated with, why it turned into the residence of kings. You can also take a bird's eye view of the city by going up to the observation deck.
Evening Genoa - architecture and aperitifs
Evening Genoa is not at all the same as daytime. The light of the lanterns gives the city a special charm. In addition, the atmosphere itself is changing - a busy working day is over, Italians are gathering in cafes and bars for a drink, a snack and a chat. Your journey will start from Porto Antico Square. You will hear the history of the city, look at the bank that refused money to Columbus, see unusual attractions.
Next, you will find Piazza de Ferrari, and the theater where Verdi staged operas. On the way, you will admire the majestic palaces of the aristocracy. And then the second part of the excursion will begin. Together with your guide, you will go to the bar, get acquainted with the "aperitivo", taste the incomparable Italian wine and a variety of snacks. And most importantly - get into the mood, feel the true spirit of the city. The guide will also tell you a lot about the habits and traditions of the Genoese.
Price: € 79 per group - Book
Portofino Park: Secret Trail Walk and Sunset Picnic
Do you want to enjoy the real Mediterranean scenery and sit on the beach with a glass of wine while watching the sunset? You have this chance. You will set off shortly before sunset. Walk with your guide along the trail in Portofino Park. From here, there are simply fantastic views. You will look into ancient villages - you cannot get here by car, you can only come on foot or by boat. The guide will tell you about the local nature - where is it better to go to a photo session, where to take a walk with children, how to find a deserted beach - you will hear the answers to all these questions.
In one of the villages located by the sea, you will have a picnic. And the sound of the surf will be a pleasant addition to it. In good weather, you can swim and see marine life - the guide will give you the necessary equipment. You need to take care of comfortable shoes when going on this trip. It is not suitable for small children and for those people for whom active walks are contraindicated for health reasons. Such is she - Genoa. When it comes to Italy, first of all, other cities are mentioned - Rome, Venice, Florence, but once having visited Genoa, you will never forget it.
